Fluorochemical Materials: The Past, Present, and Future

Fluorochemical materials have played a critical role in the advancement of modern industries owing to their exceptional thermal stability, chemical resistance, electrical properties, and surface characteristics. Over the past three decades, the Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT) has continuously developed fluorine-related technologies, ranging from fundamental synthesis and process chemistry to advanced materials and industrial applications. These efforts have contributed to the localization of key fluorochemical technologies and the development of high-performance materials for the semiconductor, display, energy, environmental, and mobility industries.
Today, fluorine chemistry is facing a major transition. Growing concerns regarding the environmental persistence and potential health effects of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are accelerating regulatory changes worldwide. However, PFAS should not be regarded as being synonymous with all fluorochemical materials. The unique properties arising from fluorine atoms remain essential for many applications in which safety, durability, energy efficiency, and extreme-environment performance are required.
This transition therefore presents not only a regulatory challenge but also an opportunity to expand the boundaries of fluorine science. Future innovation should focus on the molecular design of safer and more sustainable fluorochemicals, low-global-warming-potential gases, PFAS-free or reduced-PFAS materials, closed-loop recycling, decomposition and mineralization technologies, and data-driven platforms for predicting environmental and toxicological properties. By integrating accumulated experience with digital technologies, process innovation, and life-cycle-based material design, fluorine chemistry can evolve into a key enabling technology for green and carbon-neutral industries. This presentation reviews KRICT’s 30-year journey in fluorochemical research and discusses strategic directions for the next generation of sustainable fluorochemical materials.